Founding Members

Meet Kenny Sullivan

Founding Member of Bill’s Legacy League

I first visited Sequoia Park Zoo during an annual trip to the North Coast in the early 90’s. I would spend time with Bill the Chimp regularly and felt we shared a special bond, like many in our community do. Bill was born six months after me, so I liked to call him “Youngster,” and he always seemed to perk up at that name. I would tell him long stories and lucky for me, he never threw anything my way.

During my very first visit to Sequoia Park Zoo, I noticed that something unique was happening here. Growing up in southern California, I spent time at other zoos but typically felt like a “tourist” or “outsider”. Our little zoo is so different. It is intimate, welcoming, and there is a strong sense of community. I feel at home here.

In 2005, my wife Kate and I packed up everything and moved to Eureka to make Humboldt County our home. Initially, I was drawn to the area for the Kinetic Sculpture Race and then became smitten by this magical land of tall trees, and the fog-soaked Bay that called out to this sailor’s heart.

Sequoia Park Zoo also found a tender place in my heart over the years. I enjoy wandering around our tranquil zoo and find respite from the outside world in the beauty of nature and wildlife found here. I still visit often and am impressed by the improvements made over the last 10 years.

I want to do my part to ensure that current and future generations can enjoy this special place too. Over the years, I have given to the zoo in a variety of ways. I’m proud to be a founding member of Bill’s Legacy League and a member of the Flamingo Society. I understand that the zoo needs my support now and in planning for the future. I feel responsible to do what I can.

After much reflection, I decided to include the zoo in my estate plan earlier this year. This lasting gift will help ensure that the zoo is here for your children and grandchildren to make their own memories, here for their kids to enjoy, and here for the generations beyond. In making this gift, Sequoia Park Zoo has become an even more meaningful part of my life, a part of my legacy.

I hope you will consider joining me in making a planned gift and together, we can ensure Sequoia Park Zoo is around for the next 100 years to come.

We all have something to give—it just takes a little time and planning for the future.